ICE DICE
SELF ASSIGNMENT DIRECTIONS

by Florence W Deems

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Directions:

1. Select a small container that's able to be frozen, plus an object that will fit inside it and be water-proof and freeze-proof. The objects can be a flower or other plant parts, jewelry, keys, small plastic toys, tableware, small bottles, etc. The sky's the limit!

2. Oil the inside of the container so the ice block can easily release from it. Place object into container and fill with water. Stick in freezer for several hours until the water is frozen. Note: for lightweight objects such as flowers, you might have to put a weight (saucer or pan lid) over the container to keep the object from floating on top the water instead of sinking into it.

3. Set up a waterproof tray or table or counter where you will be photographing the block of ice. Then release the ice from the container.

4. Try shooting the ice block using light coming from various directions, including from behind the ice block, if possible.

5. Suggested options:

1. Use an ice cube tray with the dividers in it. Use dried peas or beans to make "dice"


2. Use an ice cube tray without dividers. Arrange dried beans, pebbpes, etc, in it to make a pattern.


3. Drizzle warm water over part of the ice to get it to melt in various places.


4. Use liquid food coloring over part of the block.


5. See if watercolor or acrylic paints (diluted) will make interesting patterns on the block.


6. Use a hair dryer to partially melt the block.


7. Instead of plain water, see if carbonated water will freeze - you'll definitely have to weight down the object.


8. Use lightly colored water instead of plain water.

Here are two articles about shooting extreme subjects that may help you decide how to shoot the ice blocks: Clear Glass, as it's the closest thing to shooting ice. And Flo's Clear Glass Project.

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